Thiruvananthapuram: Taking time off his hectic schedule, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday gave a 'big salute' to the state's fishermen, who rescued thousands of people trapped in the floods which claimed 470 lives since 29 May when the South West Monsoon set in over the state. Vijayan honoured the fishermen, wrapped a 'ponnada' (shawl) around them and handed over certificates of appreciation at a function.

He said the fishers did not think of their safety, their families or any monetary gains from the government as they joined rescue operations and thanked all of them. "We need to protect this unity and go forward. Our state is very dear to us. I am giving Kerala's big salute to the fishermen", Vijayan said.

He said there is a need to ensure proper rehabilitation of the affected like building houses for those who had lost their homes. Also, schools, panchayat offices, police stations and many government offices were damaged in the floods, he said. "We need to raise our state at a much higher level", he said, adding the need of the hour was to rebuild the state and take Kerala to greater heights.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi had also lauded the role played by the fishermen who had saved many lives in the recent floods that had ravaged the state.

The Chief Minister also lauded the efforts by the defence forces, NDRF, policemen, fire force personnel and hundreds of volunteers who were part of the rescue operations in the state.

Kerala says thank you to the personnel of National Disaster Response Force @NDRFHQ who were part of the rescue efforts during the floods. Their impeccable courage and dedication saved many lives. Kerala will remember your service and sacrifice. #StandWithKeralapic.twitter.com/nZXDzCnp1z

Kerala says thank you to the personnel of Indian Army (@adgpi ) who were part of the rescue efforts during the floods. Their impeccable courage and dedication saved many lives. Kerala will remember your service and sacrifice. #StandWithKeralapic.twitter.com/uTHnb7O5I3